Z-Wave network architecture includes two main types of devices, or nodes; controllers and slaves. Essentially, controller nodes can calculate routes (and alternative routes) needed in wireless communications, whereas slave nodes primarily act as physical inputs and outputs on the network. The Z-Wave protocol supports a network with a maximum of 232 total nodes, including controller nodes and slave nodes.

Typically, a Z-Wave network has far fewer than 232 nodes, with the vast majority being slave nodes. Different subtypes of controller nodes and slave nodes exist (slave nodes can be “routing slaves”, for example). At least one controller is required: a primary controller, typically a portable primary controller.

The functionality of any Z-Wave device is determined by the number and types of Z-Wave “command classes” it supports. An extensive set of command classes is available, most of which are also supported by the NiagaraAX Z-Wave driver.

In a NiagaraAX integration, the host (JACE) with Z-Wave option card (or external Z-Wave serial gateway) installs on the Z-Wave network as a controller node—minimally as a secondary “Static Controller”. At installation time, the JACE can be promoted to a “Static Update Controller” (SUC) or “SUC ID Server” (SIS), providing that the (original) portable primary controller is capable. For related details, see About JACE Z-Wave operation modes.